By Sarah McGrath, Candler Park Resident.
Candler Park’s continuous leafy canopy and charming historic architecture are two of the neighborhood’s greatest assets. Uncontrolled development seems to be threatening both. The large, modern duplexes under construction on Iverson Street are a perfect example. Candler Park is characterized by craftsman bungalows and other historic homes tucked among beautiful old trees. However, a double lot on Iverson was sold to a developer who demolished the small house and clear cut the lots, replacing the magnificent trees with modern three-story duplexes that loom over the street and clash with the adjoining traditional homes. You can see their conspicuous outline from more than a block away.
My neighbors and I believe this new construction has destroyed the architectural character of the street. Is this what we as a neighborhood want? I am concerned about how we can thoughtfully and realistically protect Candler Park’s character in the face of the city’s need for increased density in its walkable urban neighborhoods.
I took these questions to CPNO and learned that many of our neighbors share these concerns. Attempts have been made in the past to make Candler Park a Local Historic District, though some have raised concerns about what this designation might bring. A neighborhood “development committee” is currently exploring other options that would ensure that development and new construction conform to neighborhood standards.
If you feel strongly about this issue, please contact the committee (development@candlerpark.org) to help them know what specific concerns you have. (And if you haven’t been down Iverson lately, check it out.)